At CES 2012, Wireless Glue Networks launched its second-generation in-home display called SmartLook. SmartLook provides direct wireless access to smart meters with real-time information and is “The World’s First Refrigerator Magnet In-home Display,” according to Wireless Glue Networks. SmartLook relays pricing information so homeowners can learn what saves energy and money at the same time. It also stores historical usage and pricing information. NRG Energy has a booth at CES showcasing the display; keep an eye out for something like this through your local electricity provider.

Allure Energy recently announced its new EverSense product line and officially unveiled the home environment and energy management system today at CES 2012. EverSense is foremost a thermostat replacement with built-in speakers, Wi-FI, and a capacitive touch screen. It’s also a platform to share energy-saving tips and content with homeowners.

When Vanillawood founders Kricken and James Yaker outgrew their home office and started shopping for a design studio in Portland’s hot Pearl District, opening a retail store was the farthest thing from their mind. Yet they happened upon a 1000 square-foot warehouse with beautiful natural light and too-good-to-pass-up lease terms, so the design/build team seized the opportunity to showcase their organic contemporary style.

There’s something about the beginning of a year that makes the fortune tellers come out in droves. But I guess it’s fun to ponder and pontificate about the future — to string data together to predict what will happen in the next 365 days. Buildipedia took a shot at identifying green home trends for 2012, and here are the five that they list:

Geez, it’s crazy how fast the years fly. As I re-read some of what we’ve covered during 2011, I’m just amazed. I’ve seen some awesome projects and products and talked with some stellar people. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2012. Before doing that, here’s a short recap of some of the more popular topics on this site:Read more »